Saving a life with love

No matter how much you love someone, love them even more.

About my son

My son felt and believed that he was "not worthy of love." That was his perception and his reality despite the fact that I and his family loved him very much. 

As I contemplate a young life lost, I reflect on my own actions and how I can turn this into a teaching moment for everyone. So here goes. This will not be a fancy website with attention grabbing headlines, cool graphics and superficial information. Instead, I want to dig deep into how the power of love, faith and hope can save lives. Perhaps even your own if you are in search of help.

Can you save a life with love?

The relationship between a lack of love and suicide is complex and multifaceted. It's important to recognize that many factors can contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and it's rarely attributable to a single cause. A lack of love, whether it's perceived as a lack of romantic love, social support, or feelings of isolation, can be a contributing factor in some cases, but it is not the sole determinant.

People who experience a lack of love or support in their lives may be at higher risk for depression, loneliness, and emotional distress, which can increase the risk of suicidal ideation and behavior. However, it's crucial to emphasize that mental health issues, life circumstances, and personal resilience also play significant roles in determining an individual's risk of suicide.

If you or someone you know is struggling with feelings of loneliness, isolation, or thoughts of suicide, it is essential to seek help and support. Reach out to mental health professionals, crisis hotlines, or supportive friends and family members. Suicide is preventable, and there are resources available to provide assistance and support to those in need.

In summary, while a lack of love or social support can be a contributing factor in some cases of suicide, it is just one of many factors that can influence suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Mental health and individual circumstances are critical factors to consider when assessing suicide risk.

Lack of love makes people depressed, anxious and without zest for life.
Lack of love makes people depressed, anxious and without zest for life.

Love or Perish
Seriously?
A book published in 1956...

The power of love is not a new cutting-edge phenomena. It has been around since biblical times.

In the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13:13 says, "So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love".

When Love or Perish came out, The New York Times called this "a book of wisdom.” It was written by one of America’s most distinguished psychiatrists, Dr. Smiley Blanton. 

"Love or Perish" emphasizes the importance of love in our lives. Dr. Blanton explores how love is a fundamental human need and argues that without love, individuals can face emotional and psychological difficulties. Take a look at some pages for free at Google Books. 

What is it about Love?

Philosophers have explored the concept of love from various perspectives throughout history, and their views on the power of love vary widely depending on their philosophical traditions and personal beliefs. Here are some notable perspectives on the power of love from various philosophers:

  1. Plato: Plato, in his dialogues, often discussed love as a form of divine madness or inspiration. He believed that love could lead individuals to higher forms of knowledge and virtue. In "Symposium," he presents the idea that love is a ladder to the divine and a means of transcending earthly concerns.

  2. Aristotle: Aristotle considered different types of love, including friendship (philia) and romantic love (eros). He believed that love, particularly in the context of friendship, is essential for human flourishing. Love, according to Aristotle, is a bond that helps individuals cultivate virtuous qualities.

  3. St. Augustine: Augustine of Hippo, a Christian theologian and philosopher, wrote extensively about love in his work "Confessions." He argued that the highest form of love is the love of God (caritas) and that all other forms of love should be subordinated to this divine love.

  4. Søren Kierkegaard: The existentialist philosopher Kierkegaard explored the idea of love in his works. He saw love as a transformative and passionate force that could help individuals overcome despair and find meaning in life. He wrote extensively on the concept of "Christian love" as a way to connect with the divine.

  5. Friedrich Nietzsche: Nietzsche had a more critical perspective on love. He often associated love with weakness and believed that it could hinder individual greatness. However, he also recognized the potential for love to inspire and create.

  6. Simone de Beauvoir: The existentialist philosopher Simone de Beauvoir examined love in the context of existential freedom. She argued that love could be liberating and provide individuals with a sense of authenticity and autonomy when it is based on mutual respect and equality.

  7. Erich Fromm: Fromm, a social psychologist and philosopher, wrote extensively on the nature of love. He believed that mature love is an active and ongoing commitment rather than a passive feeling. Fromm saw love as a powerful force that could overcome feelings of isolation and alienation.

  8. Martin Luther King Jr.: While not a traditional philosopher, King's philosophy of nonviolence and civil rights was deeply rooted in the power of love. He famously said, "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

These are just a few examples of the diverse philosophical perspectives on the power of love. Philosophers have explored love's role in ethics, metaphysics, human relationships, and the search for meaning in life, contributing to a rich and ongoing discourse on this profound human experience.